Zach Homol is a husband, father, entrepreneur, gym owner, coach, athlete, and founder of the Do Hard Things community.
Raised in West Virginia, Zach worked as a coal miner while building a reputation as an elite powerlifter. In 2016, he took a chance and moved to Indianapolis to open Iron Valley Barbell. Despite early challenges, Zach’s consistency, creativity, and relentless effort transformed the small gym into a thriving global community that now includes coaching programs, retreats, conferences, and thousands of people committed to physical, mental, and spiritual growth.
His athletic accomplishments are beyond impressive. To name a few, Zach has squatted and deadlifted over 700 pounds, overhead pressed more than 300 pounds, performed a 175-pound pistol squat, benched 225 pounds for 49 reps and 315 for more than 20 reps. He has also completed Ironman races, ultramarathons, and recently ran 75 miles during a Backyard Ultra event. His goal this year is to exceed 100 miles, potentially becoming the first person in recorded history to both squat over 700 pounds and complete a 100-mile run.
Zach is genuinely one of the coolest people I’ve ever spoken with. Not because of what he has accomplished or how he looks/talks (although also very cool), but because of who he authentically and unapologetically is. He is not chasing appearances, status, or perfection. As you’ll hear in our discussion or see if you follow his work, his focus is on becoming the best version of himself as a husband, father, leader, and human being.
For more from Zach, check out his Substack: Do Hard Things
Some of my favorite posts from Do Hard Things:
Video of him pistol squatting 90 lbs:
